What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a form of a cancer that develops on the flat cells that cover the skin, lungs and some areas of the digestive tract. Dr. Rishi Chadha not only treats early and advanced SCC but also GI-tract and lung cancer at GastroDoxs in Houston. Gettier of this cancer to do the right steps towards care.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Excessive exposure to the sun in the long term.
- Smoking, a risk factor of lung cancer.
- Older age and fair skin tone
- Indepotent immune system due to disease or drugs.
- Skincancer in family or personal history.
Signs and Symptoms
- Unhealing sores or spots on the skin.
- Coarse, crimson spots on sun exposed places.
- Persistent cough, or chest pain (lung SCC)
- Problem with speech or swallowing.
- Loss of weight or persistent fatigue which has no cause.
How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Approach
1. Health History & Lifestyle Review
Dr. Chadha starts by looking at your history, personal and family, sun-exposure, smoking history and other symptoms that you might have.
2. Physical Examination
He conducts an extensive skin examination to detect lesions that are non-healing and he will also listen to your lungs and note the presence of any abnormal sounds. In the event of a growth of GI implication, he can prescribe endoscopic visualization.
3. Imaging Studies
- CT scan of chest (to detect lung SCC) or abdomen/pelvis (to detect GI tract lesions).
- Early GI tract cancers: endoscopic ultrasound or advanced endoscopy.
4. Biopsy & Pathology
Tissue biopsy of the suspicious area is procured and examined by pathology to ascertain squamous cell carcinoma as well as allocate the suitable ICD-10 code:
- Skin SCC: C44
- Lung SCC: C34
Frequently Asked Questions
What is squamous cell carcinoma?
A cancer, which begins in flat cells within the skin, lungs, and the GI tract.
Can SCC be cured?
Yes, if found early. The higher levels require frequent attention and follow-ups.
How fast does it grow?
Skin SCC often grows slowly. Lung SCC can grow faster.
What is the ICD-10 code for SCC?
Skin SCC: C44
Lung SCC: C34
Is a biopsy required?
Yes. It confirms the existence of the cancer and assists in the selection of the appropriate treatment.
Is SCC amenable to medical treatment?
Yes. Topical drugs, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy can be of help.
How is recovery post Mohs surgery?
With slight scarring, most of the patients recover after two weeks.
Does diet contribute to prevent it related to comeback?
Proper diet helps in recovery and cannot prevent cancer recurrence completely.
Do you recommend skin and lung SCC at GastroDoxs?
Yes. SCC of the skin and lungs, as well as it is the digestive tract, is treated under Dr. Rishi Chadha.
How can I make an appointment?
Make reservations or call our office in Houston. We're here to help.